Wet weather promotes mosquito development
VECTOR CONTROL
This year has seen one of the wettest periods to date, resulting in standing water across the state. Unfortunately, these conditions are ideal for mosquito development.
Stagnant water provides breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, and leading experts worry this could result in a prolonged and intense mosquito season.
Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) is participating in California Mosquito Awareness Week from April 16-22 to increase awareness of mosquitoes and the diseases they are capable of transmitting and to educate the public about the simple measures they can take to safeguard themselves and their families from mosquito bites.
“Our goal for California Mosquito Awareness Week is to make it easy for people to take action against mosquitoes,” says Heather Hyland, OCMVCD Director of Communications. “We believe that by providing simple, straightforward tips and resources, we can help prevent the spread of these diseases and protect our communities.”
During California Mosquito Awareness Week, OCMVCD will feature daily tips and educational content shared across multiple platforms. Additionally, there will be interactive posts and a character-naming giveaway to participate in. Everyone can help prevent mosquito bites:
• Apply insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to clothes and exposed skin according to the label instructions.
• Dress in long sleeves and pants, especially if outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Install screens on windows and doors. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flowerpots, old tires, buckets, pet dishes, and trash cans.
